Destination Basingstoke to award prizes for five lucky Half-Marathon entrants

IF YOU are looking to take part in this year’s Destination Basingstoke Half-Marathon and want to get in the running for a prize worth £1,000, then read on.

Destination Basingstoke, which organises the event, has launched a competition to help anyone thinking of participating in the race on October 5 and who needs a bit of extra encouragement.

Felicity Edwards, race director and managing director of Destination Basingstoke, said: “The competition is open to anyone who wants to run the race – whether you are thinking about easing yourself off the sofa into a challenging fitness campaign, wor-king towards a new personal best, or wanting to raise money for a cause close to your heart, we want to hear from you.

“There is a fab prize package to give you a real incentive to get moving. All we ask is that you let us join you on your journey to the finish line on October 5, by keeping us posted on your progress.”

Each of five lucky winners will receive new trainers fitted by Alton Sport, three months free full platinum membership at Beechdown Health Club, two free physiotherapy or biomechanics sessions with Reactive, a bespoke training programme and personal trainer sessions with Time4 Training, and free entry to the Basingstoke Half-Marathon, with access to the VIP area.

Runners-up will receive a buy-one-get-one-free offer on half-marathon places.

The prize packages have been put together by local sports service suppliers, which are all keen to support the race.

Ed Lindley-Hare, from Beechdown Health Club, at Down Grange, Basingstoke, said: “Membership of Beechdown Health Club will not only give winners access to our state-of-the-art gym but a wealth of other facilities to help support their training for the half-marathon, especially on days when they want a change from pounding the miles on the road.”

Patricia Lopez, from Time4 Training, based, in Stratfield Road, Oakridge, added: “I’m really looking forward to helping the winners reach their running goals – whatever they may be. I’ll be with them every step of the way, and will certainly be on the finish line to help them celebrate their achievements.”

Entrants to the competition should send a photo of themselves, contact details and a maximum of 500 words on why they think they should win, to Destination Basingstoke by June 15.

Mrs Edwards said: “The competition is all about encouraging local people to join in the half-marathon as a great personal goal and community event.

The race is now in its fourth year and we are constantly building on the success and want to introduce more and more people to this very special challenge.”